SPD Accuses Union of 'Smear Campaign' Against Mask Investigator Margaretha Sudhof

Thu 10th Jul, 2025

The Social Democratic Party (SPD) has accused the opposition Union party of conducting a 'smear campaign' against Margaretha Sudhof, who is investigating the procurement of face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. This allegation was made during a session of the Bundestag's Health Committee, where Sudhof was present to answer questions regarding her inquiry into the actions of former Health Minister Jens Spahn.

Sudhof, appointed by Spahn's successor Karl Lauterbach, has been examining the extensive procurement of masks that took place at the height of the pandemic. Her findings revealed that Spahn acted independently, often disregarding advice from professional staff, to purchase large quantities of masks at inflated prices. Many of these masks ultimately went unused.

Christos Pantazis, a health policy spokesperson for the SPD, expressed his concerns about the Union's tactics, stating that they are unwarranted and emphasize the need to protect the integrity of the investigation. He also hinted at the possibility of establishing a parliamentary committee to further investigate the matter, a proposal that has already been supported by the Left Party and the Greens. The SPD had previously been reluctant to back such a committee, particularly due to the involvement of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.

In a prior statement, CDU representative Simone Borchardt reiterated criticisms of Sudhof's report, claiming she failed to interview Spahn directly, which raised questions around the thoroughness of her investigation. Borchardt voiced doubts about the legality of Sudhof's approach, suggesting it undermines the rule of law.

As the situation unfolds, Sudhof has refrained from publicly addressing the allegations made against her, opting instead to focus on her responses to the inquiries from committee members.


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